S. 2102: Ralph David Abernathy, Sr., National Historic Site Act

This bill establishes the Ralph David Abernathy, Sr., National Historic Site in Georgia as part of the National Park System. The site is intended to preserve and interpret the history and contributions of Dr. Abernathy, an important figure in the civil rights movement, particularly as a pastor at the historic West Hunter Street Baptist Church. The bill outlines several key components:

Establishment of the Historic Site

The bill creates the Ralph David Abernathy, Sr., National Historic Site, which will include:

• The location where Dr. Abernathy served as a pastor during the civil rights movement.
• A focus on Dr. Abernathy's role as a recognized civil rights leader.

Conditions for Establishment

The historic site will only be established once the Secretary of the Interior determines that a sufficient amount of land has been acquired to manage the site effectively. Following this determination, the Secretary must publish a notice of the establishment in the Federal Register within 30 days.

Defining Boundaries

The boundaries of the Historic Site will be based on a specific map detailing the proposed area.

Land Acquisition

The Secretary of the Interior will have the authority to acquire land for the site through:

• Donations.
• Purchases from willing sellers using funding that has been donated or appropriated.
• Land exchanges.

However, any land owned by the State of Georgia or its political subdivisions can only be acquired through donations.

Administration and Management

The administration of the Historic Site will be in accordance with the laws applicable to National Park System units. Additionally, a management plan must be completed within three years of funding for the site becoming available.

Agreements and Partnerships

The Secretary may enter into various agreements to facilitate educational and interpretive services related to the site. This may include:

• Installing signage for guidance and information.
• Creating exhibits.
• Addressing parking and other administrative needs.
• Implementing technology for interpretive devices.
• Conducting tours and public interpretation.
• Preserving historic and cultural resources.

Significance of the Bill

This bill aims to honor the legacy of Dr. Ralph David Abernathy by establishing a site that serves educational and interpretive purposes, helping to safeguard his contributions to the civil rights movement for future generations.

Relevant Companies

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